After saying that, she turned and left. James followed closely. Before leaving, he added, "Remember to pay the bill."

"Damn it," Francis muttered, clenching his fists angrily. A hint of disappointment crossed his somewhat handsome face.

"James, you piece of junk! Just wait," he seethed, full of hatred for James, who had ruined his plans.

James led Xara out of the Gourmand. He placed her suitcase in the trunk and drove to the Callahans' residence.

Xara sat in the passenger seat, a silly smile on her face as she scrolled through photos she had taken with Daniel. James couldn't help but comment, "They're just photos. Is that necessary?"

"What do you know?" Xara retorted, shooting him a look. "General Highsmith is my idol. The Blithe King is an even greater idol. Taking a photo with them was a lifelong dream, and finally, my wish came true."

She paused, glancing at James before continuing, "However, the person I admire most is the Black Dragon General of the Southern Plains. You said you were deployed to the South. Have you seen him? What does he look like?"

"Of course," James said haughtily. "No one knows the Black Dragon better than me."

"Really?" Xara exclaimed, delighted. She peppered him with questions: "So, is he tall or short? Fat or skinny? What's he like? Is he married?"

She knew of the Black Dragon and his legendary battle, known worldwide to military enthusiasts. However, no one knew what he looked like. His appointment as general was top secret, known only to a few high-ranking military officials. Even leaked photos were only accessible to the most prominent families in the capital.

James smiled. "I can confidently say the Black Dragon is married. Give up on your dream."

Xara was disappointed, but her disappointment quickly faded. "Brag all you want. I've heard that although you were in the military for ten years, you remained a low-ranking foot soldier. The Black Dragon's army in the Southern Plains numbered millions. I doubt you were even qualified to join their ranks. How could you possibly know him if you've never seen him?"

James smiled, saying nothing. He knew she wouldn't believe him, even if he told the truth; she'd only accuse him of delusion. Xara sighed deeply. "A year ago, my idol, the Black Dragon, charged into the enemy camp alone, wreaking havoc. Amidst the bloodshed and corpses, he returned triumphant, carrying the enemy commander's decapitated head. That marked the end of his legendary life."

"To think a common citizen like you would be so knowledgeable," James remarked.

"Of course," Xara said smugly. "I'm a veteran military junkie." Her expression shifted to sadness. "I don't know if I'll ever see the Black Dragon. When the opportunity arises, I'll visit the Southern Plains. For now, I'll stay in Cansington. Perhaps I'll get to see the Blithe King."

Suddenly, she had an idea. "James, you've known Daniel your whole life. Even though he's successful now, he might still do you a favor. Please help me. I really want a picture with the Blithe King," she pleaded.

"Huh?" James glanced at Xara. He did like her—she admired military men, wasn't boy-crazy, and didn't blindly worship celebrities. Besides, she only wanted a picture with the Blithe King, not to marry a general.

"Xara, I can help you, but you must keep it a secret from Thea. If you can do that, I'll arrange a meeting with the Blithe King."

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